When you’re staring at 800 resumes, nuance disappears. Everything blurs together.

So I threw my own resume into Breakthrough Jobs AI tool and compared it to an open position.

The tool didn’t “decide” anything. It just helped surface:
– Strengths
– Gaps
– Better interview questions

And honestly, the suggested questions were better than some I’ve heard in real interviews.

Technology shouldn’t replace human judgment.

But it can absolutely reduce human overwhelm.

Get your free trial at www.breakjobs.ai

The post Overwhelmed with applications? Try this free for 14 days appeared first on Improve Your HR.

I just did it, although I doubt I’ll get any surveys. No one ever wants to survey people who live in Switzerland because we’re such a small market.

But if you live in a larger market like the USA, you could make some real money.

And yes, in the interest of full disclosure, I get a tiny referral fee every time you fill out a survey if you sign up using my link. Using my link doesn’t decrease the amount you get paid. So, help me buy the kitties their preferred food. (I try to remind them they were street cats and should be grateful for anything, but no, they are snobs.)

Sign up here: Business Insights Hub

Please think of the joy you are bringing my cats. Currently, to afford her preferred cat food, Claudia has to save money by forgoing a bed and sleeping in a cardboard box.

And Mikey is forced to work all day, managing my social media.

It’s not fair. So, sign up and take surveys and rescue my cats from their lives of hardship.

Sign up here: Business Insights Hub

The post Get Paid to Take Surveys (Totally legit, I promise) appeared first on Improve Your HR.

The gig economy: I’ve been involved in it since 2010, and I love it. But understanding how it works, who is a contractor and who is an employee, and what a “permalancer” is can be confusing.

Fortunately, Mellow’s new book, “New Work: Decoding Gig Economy Terms,” can help you navigate the new world of work.

The Gig Economy for 2025

While no one can predict the future, everyone agrees that the gig economy isn’t going away. The World Bank estimated that there were 435 million gig workers globally in 2022. That number is undoubtedly growing. Add to that, some people aren’t “gig” workers but want to work remotely with the flexibility of a gig worker, and you have a very different world of work than we had in the 2010s.

Gig work is no longer a “jack of all trades” type of work. Plenty of gig workers are highly skilled and experts in their fields. Startups Magazine predicts that “by 2025, high-skilled freelancers in fields like AI, cybersecurity, and healthcare are expected to form a larger part of the workforce, seeking autonomy and diverse opportunities.”

Your company probably uses contractors, consultants, or other gig workers, even if you’re unaware. The cleaning service you hired? There may well be a gig worker who shows up to scrub your floors. The HR consultant you called? She is probably a self-employed gig worker with a mix of long (permalancer!) and short-term contracts. And, the person who delivered your lunch? A gig worker.

Understanding the new world of work

Each country has different rules surrounding contractors and traditional employees. In the United States, there are strict rules regarding who a contractor is and who an employee is. A general rule of thumb is that if you provide equipment, control where and when someone works and you are their only client, they are a legal employee and should be treated and paid as such.

You can have a workforce where some people are independent contractors, some are contractors who are legal employees of another business entity, or you can have regular employees. Each business structure has its own advantages and disadvantages.

If you use a lot of contractors and freelancers you have the freedom to expand and contract rapidly, depending on market conditions. But, no matter how much you loved that freelancer’s work, if you don’t get on their calendar soon, you may not be able to hire them for the next project! Their time is their own.

You can place more restrictions on an employee and require that they focus on your business from 9:00 to 5:00 Monday through Friday (or whatever schedule you want), but even with “at-will” employment, you can’t just quickly terminate someone if their work becomes a bit substandard.

What about tapping into a global market?

The world is smaller than ever, with our ability to communicate instantly with just about every corner of the globe. And while laws surround who can work in each country, there are ways for your business to go global.

With the use of companies like Mellow, you can hire someone from just about anywhere and let them handle the the ins and outs of regulations and pay with various laws. Otherwise, you may find yourself in trouble with the law of a country you’ve never even visited.

You can find freelancers everywhere–I’ve worked with freelancers in India, Brazil, Malaysia, and Nigeria. 

What you can’t do is keep your employee on US payroll and have them go work in Canada for six months. That will get you in a whole bunch of trouble, even if the employe can legally work in Canada. 

Navigating this new world can be difficult, but it also opens up all kinds of extra talent for you to choose from. You don’t have to make a long-term commitment to be a great gig worker, and you aren’t limited to people within a 45-minute commute from your office. It’s a whole new world of work.

The post New Work: Decoding Gig Economy Terms with Mellow appeared first on Improve Your HR.

Mitigating Risk with I-9 Verification Software to Prevent Fraud and  Identity Theft in Hiring 

In today’s hiring process, mistakes can be costly. Threats like fraud and identity theft can  easily happen during the hiring process if you’re not careful, potentially leading to hiring  unauthorized workers and accepting invalid employee documentation. 

Handling employee forms and documentation manually can be a bit of a headache— especially if you’re onboarding a high volume of new hires. This is where I-9 verification software comes into play. I-9 verification software has built-in security checks that help you keep fraud and identity theft at bay. It helps you automate the employee verification process to make sure every hire is legally allowed to work.  

Let’s explore the ins and outs of I-9 verification software and how it can help your business avoid security and compliance risks.  

Understanding I-9 Verification Software 

I-9 verification software streamlines the process of confirming that new hires are legally eligible to work in the U.S. With modern technology, this can be done from any location using a smart device.  

I-9 verification software guides you through the entire I-9 process, from document collection to eligibility verification. It leverages automation to catch errors early on before submission. After completing Section 1, the software facilitates Section 2 through a unique authorized representative process, eliminating the need for a notary visit. Tools like WorkBright can even automatically submit E-Verify cases for added compliance assurance.  

The automation reduces the manual workload for HR teams, accelerates the verification  process, and minimizes common errors such as blank fields, expired documentation, and  missing signatures. 

Ensuring Compliance and Staying Secure 

During a time when data breaches are a significant concern, it is crucial to have a secure  system for managing employee data.  

I-9 verification software addresses this need by securely storing data and actively managing compliance to prevent costly issues. It ensures that Form I-9 is completed accurately and on time, utilizing features like real-time error detection, automated document checks, prefill capabilities, and electronic submissions and storage to reduce human error.  

The software not only helps the process of verifying all required information in line with federal  and state regulations but also allows easy monitoring of expiring work authorizations and  compliance deadlines. To further protect sensitive information, companies are encouraged to  select software that meets high industry standards, such as SOC 2 Type II certification,  ensuring both data security and regulatory compliance. 

The Importance of Mitigating Risk in Hiring 

Why is completing Form I-9 accurately so important? Mistakes that result in an inaccurate  Form I-9 or hiring unauthorized workers can result in devastating financial penalties for your 

business. It also opens the door to long-term issues, such as fraud, criminal liability, and inefficient operations.  

If you’re caught knowingly hiring unauthorized workers, you could be looking at fines, criminal  charges, and even losing the ability to bid on contracts. Plus, your brand’s reputation could  suffer consequences, ultimately affecting your profit margins and bottom line. Moreover,  people found to be ineligible to work in the U.S. during an audit could be subject to  deportation, leaving you at risk of losing part of your workforce. 

If you want to avoid legal risks and stay compliant with all federal and state regulations, I-9  verification software can help you do it efficiently and meet all compliance standards.  

Simplify and Scale with I-9 Verification Software 

As organizations grow, scaling the onboarding process while maintaining compliance can be challenging. I-9 verification software offers a streamlined solution to manage this complexity. By automating the I-9 form process, the software helps handle a larger volume of new hires efficiently and accurately. 

Automation reduces the administrative burden on HR teams by cutting down on manual data  entry and errors. Additionally, the software’s mobile-friendly and remote capabilities allow new  hires to complete and submit their I-9 forms from any location, alleviating bottlenecks for HR  teams dealing with distributed or remote workforces. 

Using effective I-9 verification software helps businesses avoid costly fines and penalties associated with non-compliance. By ensuring forms are completed accurately and in line with legal requirements, companies can minimize the risk of audits and legal issues, supporting smooth and scalable growth. 

Avoid Risks: Invest in I-9 Verification Software 

Adopting I-9 verification software is a strategic move for organizations looking to enhance efficiency and manage risk in their hiring process. This technology automates the verification of employee eligibility and ensures compliance with legal requirements, protecting against fraud and identity theft while streamlining onboarding. 

With advanced features like automated error detection, secure data storage, and remote accessibility, I-9 verification software allows businesses to efficiently handle large volumes of new hires while maintaining stringent compliance. This not only shields your organization from  costly penalties and legal issues but also supports your hiring capacity. 

Investing in I-9 verification software demonstrates a strong commitment to both security and compliance. It’s an essential tool for businesses seeking to optimize their hiring process,  mitigate legal risks, and create a secure and efficient onboarding experience.

This post was written by Workbright and is paid advertising

The post Mitigating Risk with I-9 Verification Software to Prevent Fraud and Identity Theft in Hiring appeared first on Improve Your HR.

Last call if you want to spend three days and nine hours with Jeff Nowak next week learning all about the A-D-A! I have signed up and am very excited!

Jeff says:

Can’t join us live on March 5, 6 and 7? NO WORRIES! If you register now, the recording of the session will be available for 90 days afterward!

Get all the info, detailed agenda and registration link here: https://lnkd.in/gGVT9rcF

In this interactive, three-day (nine-hour) training course, I will help you master the critical components of the Americans with Disabilities Act and become more comfortable with managing an employee with a medical condition.

Dare we say, the course might even get you a wee bit excited about implementing #ADA accommodations in the workplace!

In this ADA #MasterClass, I will use case studies and a bit of humor to help you master the ADA from beginning to end! Ditching the legalese, I also will highlight a TON of case law developments that impact how you implement reasonable #accommodations, enforce #attendance policies and issue discipline, make medical inquiries of your employees, ask #interview questions without stepping in it, and ensure your employee’s #fitness for duty.

The post Join Jeff Nowark for 9 hours of ADA! appeared first on Improve Your HR.

Sign up as a participant here: Wynter Research Panels

Here are 5 reasons to sign up right now (provided by real participants):

• Your professional opinions will be heard and acted upon.
• The feedback you provide will lead to better products and/or services for the market–your market, since you are the requested audience.
• You’ll help others improve their messaging and value propositions so that it resonates better with their target audience, which is you.
• You’ll discover new products and services that resonate with your current professional role.
• You’ll make some spare cash while learning something new in just 2-10 minutes.

The post Wynter Paid Research appeared first on Improve Your HR.

My topic is Improv Your Employment law! Yes, I’ll be talking about using improv comedy skills to help you handle legal issues as an HR person. I know, totally wacky, but I swear it will be awesome.

If you’re in the area, this is a great conference you don’t want to miss at CBIA!

You can sign up here: CBIA Conference

The post Improv Your Employment Law appeared first on Improve Your HR.

HR WebAdvisor

HR Web Advisor does webinars on all your HR needs and Evil HR Lady readers get 20 percent discount with the code evilhrlady! You’ll notice some big names there like friend-of-the-blog and employment attorney extraordinaire Jon Hyman, Wendy Sellers, and yours truly.

To get your discount, go to HR Web Advisors select your class, and at checkout, enter code evilhrlady at checkout! You’ll get your 20 percent discount! That’s huge! You can still enter the code even if your company is paying for it!

You can get HRCI and SHRM credit for most courses, so this is a cheaper way to get credit! Plus, the info is top-notch.

AIHR

If you want to increase your technical skills or have in-depth training in how to be an HR Business Partner, Generalist, or just about anything, AIHR is the place to be! Evil HR Lady Readers get a 10 percent discount! Simply click this link or the AIHR logo above and enter your email for the 10 percent discount.

Lexivist

“Learn through play, anytime, anywhere with our gamified microlearning app!

Lexivist is a gamified microlearning app with AI twist, It makes the dream of an easier and sticky learning experience come true.

There is no more need for “complete your learning module in X days” reminders and no need to be concerned about “if the topic is learned properly”.

You can get a 50 percent discount by typing “ehr50” next to the title section of the form when you start your membership!

On top Lexivist’s advanced features allow businesses to create training modules with ease and enhance employee engagement.”

The Best HR Planner on the Planet

This HR Planner will get you through 2023 with your calendar intact and your blood pressure low because you know you aren’t missing anything.

Click here to buy or click the logo above!

Help Desk for HR

HelpDeskforHR.com is a membership that provides unlimited email support for HR questions, 700+ forms, documents, and policy samples, along with applications such as our Job Description Writer, Employee Handbook Creator, Performance Evaluation Center, Reference Checker, Interview Question Writer, FMLA Navigator, Interactive Process Navigator, a mobile app, and more. Here is the link that provides more details. https://helpdeskforhr.com/

With the Discount Code EvilHR2023 you get the annual membership for $599 instead of $899! Talk about a bargain!

hrcp Micro HR

hrcp does micro learning certification! If you use the discount code EVILHR you’ll get 15 percent off! You can take the course you need to take and learn what you need to learn! Click here to learn more: Micro HR

ConquerHR

Are you considering taking the PHR/SPHR or the SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP? ConquerHR has an amazing BootCamp taught by Victoria Purser. I’ve personally seen a bunch of her material, and it’s the perfect boost to get you past the finish line!

Evil HR Readers get 10 percent off with this code: EVILHRLADY.

Go to ConquerHR and sign up with this code! EVILHRLADY

If you’re not ready to take the BootCamp, you can join Victoria’s Facebook group for free, but come back here and snag the code when you’re ready to do hardcore test prep!

PeopleServe

PeopleServe has two different great offerings for HR professionals:

HR Certification Prep: This course will prepare you to take HRCI or SHRM exams. They have a high pass rate for people who take their courses

HR Fundamentals Course: Are you new to HR? Have you been thrown in and feel like you’re in over your head (don’t worry, we all do). This course can teach you how to tread water.

Sign up at PeopleServe.  And use discount code EHR to get a discount.

More to come!

I’m currently working with some other organizations to offer discounts as well. If your organization serves HR people, and you’d like to offer this community a discount, let me know! Message me at EvilHRLady@gmail.com.

And in the interest of full disclosure, I also receive money. So you are increasing your skills at a discount and paying for my cat food! The kitties appreciate it.

The post Happy Labor Day! Discounts for Evil HR Lady Readers appeared first on Improve Your HR.

Human resources (HR) are at the core of any successful business, and managing them efficiently is key to a company’s growth. Multiple HR tools designed for small and medium businesses (SMBs) have been developed to streamline various HR processes, from recruitment to onboarding and performance management. Discover some of the best HR tools built for SMBs, with a special focus on

HR Onboarding Software

The onboarding process is crucial when welcoming a new hire to the team. HR onboarding software can automate the process, ensuring new employees have a positive and engaging onboarding experience to increase employee retention.

WorkBright: A tool specifically designed for remote onboarding, WorkBright enables new hires to complete all necessary documentation digitally before their first day at work. WorkBright minimizes repetitive tasks through automation to reduce the time and cost associated with employee onboarding, saving businesses valuable resources. Its mobile-friendly features, automated reminders, and integrations, like E-verify for remote I-9 applications and applicant tracking, further enhance the onboarding experience.

BambooHR: BambooHR offers onboarding software that keeps new hires engaged from the moment they accept their offer. With automated onboarding tasks, employees can complete them at their own pace, fostering a sense of inclusion and productivity. Using BambooHR, you benefit from streamlined paperwork, customizable preboarding packages, and advanced setup for new hires.

Recruitment and Applicant Tracking

Recruiting the right talent is an integral part of HR management. These tools assist in managing job postings, tracking applicants, and streamlining the hiring process.

Zoho Recruit: Zoho Recruit enables businesses to design a branded careers page, list job openings, and accept applications for multiple positions. You can create SEO-friendly pages, ensure mobile accessibility, and candidates gain access to a portal for streamlined application tracking. With Source Boosters, you can post job openings across multiple boards to increase visibility, simplify the candidate experience, and establish a strong talent pool.

Greenhouse: Greenhouse is a comprehensive recruiting platform with CRM capabilities so recruiters can organize, automate, measure, and take action to build a talent community. The Sourcing Automation add-on enables quick and effective engagement with top talent, and it offers customizable permissions, task notifications, and talent pools to track relationships over time. The platform facilitates job promotion across thousands of boards and LinkedIn and empowers employee referrals through structured programs.

Performance Management and Employee Engagement

Performance management tools help assess employee performance, set goals, and offer feedback. They can also boost employee engagement by facilitating continuous communication and recognition.

Lattice: Lattice is a performance management tool that enables SMBs to manage and engage their teams effectively. With features like goal-setting, real-time feedback, and performance reviews, Lattice provides a comprehensive solution for tracking and improving employee performance.

15Five: 15Five focuses on continuous performance management. Its features, such as weekly check-ins and peer recognition, enable regular and constructive feedback exchanges between managers and employees.

Bonusly: Bonusly is an employee recognition and rewards platform that complements performance management tools by promoting employee engagement and motivation. With Bonusly, SMBs can create a culture of appreciation and recognition, allowing employees to give and receive recognition for their contributions.

Payroll and Benefits Management

These tools simplify the complex process of managing employee payroll, taxes, and benefits.

Gusto: Gusto is an all-in-one platform that streamlines payroll, benefits, and HR processes. With Gusto, SMBs can automate payroll calculations, manage tax filings, and give employees easy access to paystubs and tax forms.

Paychex: Paychex offers scalable payroll and HR solutions tailored to businesses of all sizes. In addition to efficient payroll management, Paychex provides a benefits administration feature. This feature allows SMBs to handle employee benefits enrollment, track contributions, and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.

Learning and Development

Investing in employee development can significantly enhance a company’s growth and employee retention. These tools make planning, managing, and tracking employee training easy.

Lessonly: Lessonly is a flexible learning platform that empowers SMBs to deliver on-demand training to their teams. With Lessonly, businesses can create and distribute multimedia lessons, track individual progress, and assess learning outcomes.

Bridge: Bridge is a comprehensive learning management system offering an integrated training, career development, and employee engagement platform. It provides tools for creating personalized development plans, tracking progress, and delivering targeted learning content.

Udemy for Business: Udemy for Business is an online learning platform that offers a wide range of courses and training materials for professional development. It provides SMBs with access to a vast library of courses on various topics, including technical skills, leadership development, and soft skills.

Empowering Your SMB with the Right HR Tools

Selecting the right HR tools for your SMB can help to streamline operations, save time, and improve overall efficiency. Depending on your specific needs, you may benefit from tools focusing on recruitment, onboarding, performance management, payroll, benefits, or learning and development. 

By integrating these technologies into your business processes, you can create a more engaging and productive work environment for your employees.

This post was written by Workbright and is paid advertising

Image: https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-using-a-laptop-5198239/

The post HR Tools Built for Small and Medium Businesses appeared first on Improve Your HR.

Nearly 80% of working adults in the US have started looking for a new job in the past year. It’s more important than ever for HR teams to understand what motivates their employees and contributes to their happiness and productivity. You may have good benefits and a focus on employee wellbeing, but do you have the RIGHT programs and support that keep your employees happy and help you to attract the best talent in the market? 

The post Free E-Book: Build the Winning Team appeared first on Improve Your HR.